BOSTON — Cautiously optimistic that a proposed state bill could bring TNCs in line with the taxi and limousine industries in Massachusetts, Rick Szilagyi, CEO, New England Livery Association (NELA), updated members on two state bills during the association’s annual holiday dinner party and meeting Tuesday, Dec. 8.
“The next six months are critical. We’re right in the fight.” Szilagyi told more than 100 members and guests. He added that there are two competing TNC regulatory bills under review by the Massachusetts State House. One, backed by Gov. Charlie Baker would require limited regulations on TNCs. The other bill, proposed by Sen. Linda Dorcena Forry, D-Dorchester, and Rep. Michael Moran, D-Brighton, (and supported by the NELA and Taxi industry) would require TNCs to abide by more stringent existing private transportation regulations.
The final hearing on both bills took place Sept. 15, but the next six months are critical as both sides will lobby legislators to craft a final version in their favor before a vote is taken possibly in July at the close of the legislative session.
Bret Barenholtz, owner Boston Car Service of Canton, who also addressed members on the pending legislation, said NELA is working with the taxi industry to get the Forry-Moran bill passed. He urged members to support and help underwrite lobbying and public relations initiatives as both bills are reviewed in the months ahead.
“We need everyone to step-up to support our lobbying and PR work,” Barenholtz said. “We have the opportunity to be the first state in the country to have a TNC bill with some teeth to it passed.”
Related Boston Globe article here
Keywords
Boston operators legislation lobbying MASSACHUSETTS Massachusetts operators NELA New England Livery Association New England operators Rick Szilagyi state regulations TNCs
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